CRS Report: “The Office of Technology Assessment: History, Authorities, Issues, and Options”

CRS issued an updated report on OTA on April 29, 2020, that “describes the OTA’s historical mission, organizational structure, funding, staffing, operations, and perceived strengths and weakness. The report concludes with a discussion of issues and options surrounding reestablishing the agency or its functions.” 

The 45-page report is followed by four appendices: 

Appendix A provides a historical overview of discussions about the definition of “technology assessment,” a topic fundamental to OTA’s mission and to any organization that would seek to fulfill OTA’s historic role. 

Appendix B describes selected trends and factors that may contribute to a perceived need for technology assessment. 

Appendix C provides a history of legislative efforts to reestablish OTA or its functions since the agency was defunded. 

Appendix D provides a list of technology assessment products produced from 2002 to 2019 by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).